When it comes to surviving the toddler years, parents know that having the right bath time essentials can make all the difference. Because while some kids happily splash around for an hour, others treat bath time like it’s a personal attack by running from the tub, protesting hair washes, and somehow getting more dirty in the process.
The good news? A few small upgrades can completely change the vibe. From extra-foamy bubble baths and color-changing water toys to genius tools that make hair washing much less dramatic, these products help turn nightly battles into something kids genuinely look forward to. Here are 18 bath time favorites that make getting clean way more fun for everyone involved.
Fun Toddler Bathtime Essentials
Childs Farm
Some kids want bath products that smell fun, but parents still need formulas that are gentle on sensitive skin. This hair and body wash checks both boxes with fruity scents and a mild formula that feels playful without being overpowering. Bonus: it simplifies the routine by handling both hair and body wash in one step.
Childs Farm
There’s something about a tub full of bubbles that instantly makes bath time feel more exciting. This bubble bath creates lots of foam with just a small amount, which means kids get the “bubble mountain” experience they love while parents avoid pouring half the bottle into the tub.
Amazon | Lifewit
This rinsing basin is designed to help direct water exactly where it needs to go, which means fewer surprise splashes in the eyes and extra comfort on hair wash days.
Amazon | Komdik
For kids who hate getting water in their eyes, a shower cap like this can completely the hair washing process. The adjustable fit helps keep water and shampoo away from their face, making rinsing way less stressful.
Target | Dabble & Dollop
These colorful bath droplets make the tub feel more like an activity than a routine. Kids love watching the water change while you can appreciate how easy they are to toss into the bath for quick vibe shift.
Amazon | Nuenen
If your child refuses to use a washcloth but loves anything colorful and playful, these soft loofahs are a fun alternative. They’re gentle enough for little skin while still making kids feel like they’re using a “grown-up” bath tool.
Amazon | Bluey
If all else fails, adding a favorite character into the mix usually helps. This Bluey-themed bath toy keeps kids entertained with water coloring fun while they soak.
Amazon | Tub Works
Part sexperiment, part bath toy, this fizzy bath volcano turns the tub into a mini science fair. It’s especially helpful for kids who need a distraction or something exciting to look forward to before getting in the water.
Target | Tub Works
Bath slime sounds messy, but all this does is make kids excited about getting clean. This goo transforms bath water into a sensory play experience that feels more like playtime than part of the bedtime routine.
Amazon | Nuby
This interactive bath toy keeps little hands busy with spinning pieces and pouring water features. It’s the kind of toy that buys parents a few extra peaceful minutes while kids stay happily occupied.
Target | Jool Baby
A bubble machine for the bathtub? Enough said. This dolphin-shaped foam maker turns an ordinary bath into a whole new experience.
Target | Yookidoo
For kids who never sit still, this interactive bath book gives them something calming to focus on while soaking.
Target | Moana
A bath caddy helps keep toys organized and easy to grab—which makes cleanup slightly less painful. The Moana theme also adds a fun touch kids will love seeing next to the tub.
Target | Yookidoo
This toy turns rinsing into a full activity. Kids can scoop, pour, and watch the water flow through the spinning umbrella to make bathtime more interactive.
Target | Jool Baby
For sports-obsessed kids, these floating bath toys bring their favorite activities right into the tub.
Target | Haba
This bath whisk is one of those oddly simple products that keeps toddlers engaged. It helps create extra bubbles in the tub, which if you ask most kids, is the entire point of bath time anyways.
Amazon | BEEHOMEE
A slippery tub can make little kids feel nervous during bath time, especially when they’re climbing in and out. So, a cushioned non-slip mat adds comfort and stability while also making the tub feel a little cozier.
Amazon | BTPEIHTD
Sometimes the post-bath transition is half the battle. Cute patterned robes make drying off feel more comforting, and can help keep the cozy mood going after the water is drained.
Available in 10+ patterns
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
McKenna Pringle, Assistant Editor of Branded Content
As the Assistant Editor of Branded Content, McKenna collaborates with our sales team by creating both written and social media content, collecting and analyzing performance data to report back to our partners, and assisting our editors with their everyday tasks to ensure a smooth and productive process.
Products included in graphics linked within the article. Feature graphic images credited to: Walmart, Amazon, Target
This post contains a sponsored inclusion of Childs Farm but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board.
